Photo taken on April 25, 2021 shows a portrait of Tobgye in Bomdoi Township, Dagze District of Lhasa, southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje)
LHASA, June 15 (Xinhua) -- Tobgye, 84, was once a serf and lived under cruel feudal serfdom before the democratic reform in Tibet in 1959.
In addition to exorbitant taxes, Tobgye and his family had to do various work like harvesting, weaving, cutting wood and grazing for their lords, sometimes they had to kneel on the ground so their lords can step on their backs to mount the horses.
"The old time was heaven for the aristocrats, but hell for the poor," Tobgye recalled. In those days, the serfs wore worn-out clothes, which were rough in texture.
Life changed after the democratic reform. Tobgye was provided with land, live stocks and houses, and has enjoyed a happy life ever since.
Tobgye walks to a teahouse to chat with his friends in Bomdoi Township, Dagze District of Lhasa, southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, April 25, 2021. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje)
Tobgye waters the plants at home in Bomdoi Township, Dagze District of Lhasa, southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, April 25, 2021. (Xinhua/Purbu Zhaxi)
Tobgye enjoys tea time at a teahouse in Bomdoi Township, Dagze District of Lhasa, southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, April 25, 2021. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje)
Tobgye and his granddaughter are seen at home in Bomdoi Township, Dagze District of Lhasa, southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, April 25, 2021. (Xinhua/Purbu Zhaxi)
The granddaughter of Tobgye serves a cup of tea to Tobgye in Bomdoi Township, Dagze District of Lhasa, southwest China's Tibet Autonomous Region, April 25, 2021. (Xinhua/Jigme Dorje)■
